Halal Haven in Manila, Philippines – Savour the Flavours of the Capital

Welcome to Manila!

As you set foot in the vibrant city of Manila—the historic, bustling, and endlessly colourful heart of the Philippines—you’ll find yourself immersed in a fascinating mix of Spanish-colonial heritage, modern skyscrapers, lively markets, and warm Filipino hospitality. Manila’s streets pulse with jeepneys, street-food aromas, and unexpected green pockets amid the urban sprawl. The city’s rich past alongside its energetic present makes it a perfect base for halal-food-loving travellers who want more than just resort meals or tourist circuits.

While many may know Manila for its historic walled city of Intramuros, its waterfront promenades and shopping hubs, the metropolis also has another story to tell: one of multicultural food, of Muslim-friendly dining, of halal menus that cater both to Muslim visitors and those simply seeking safe, clean, delicious food.

 

Halal Dining & Menu Recommendations in Manila

The halal food scene in Manila is growing and diverse—from Middle Eastern kebabs to Persian stews, Malaysian-style dishes to local Filipino-Muslim cuisine. Here are three standout restaurants where halal compliance and quality meet flavour and atmosphere:

1. Dulang Halal Restaurant (Ermita, Manila)

Located along M. Adriatico Street corner Padre Faura in Ermita, Dulang Halal Restaurant is a Filipino-Muslim dining spot offering genuine cuisine such as Chicken Piyanggang and Beef Kulma in a halal-certified environment.

 

Recommended dishes: Chicken Piyanggang (smoky, nutty coconut-turmeric flavour)  , Beef Kulma (rich curry with coconut milk)

Why go: Offers a local flavour (Filipino-Muslim cuisine) instead of purely Middle Eastern or Malaysian; good choice if you want to try something more indigenous to the Philippines’ Muslim communities.

Operation hours: Mon-Sun (8am – 9pm)

Location: 1313 Adriatico St, Malate, Manila, 1004 Metro Manila, Philippines

Tip: Go earlier for dinner if you’d like a quieter atmosphere; ask about halal certification and kitchen practices as always.

 

2. Arya Persian Restaurant (Robinsons Place/Greenhills)

For those craving Persian-flavoured halal dining, Arya offers authentic dishes prepared with halal-certified meats. According to guides, the chelo kebab (grilled meat served with saffron rice and grilled tomato) is a must-try.

 

Recommended dishes: Chelo kebab, lamb shank Persian style, saffron rice.

Why go: A slightly more upscale ambience for a special dinner, ideal if you’re dining with friends or family and want something a bit refined.

Operation hours: Mon-Sun (10am – 11pm)

Location: Zone 072, Arya Persian Restaurants, Level 1 Space 276 Robinsons Place Manila Midtown, Adriatico St, corner Pedro Gil St, Ermita, Manila

Tip: Ask about portion sizes, Persian meals often come with hearty sides so sharing is a good option.

 

3. Pamanganan House of Malaysian Halal Foods (Elizondo Street, Quiapo)

Offering Malaysian-style halal dishes in Manila, this restaurant is perfect if you’re in the mood for something spicy, comforting and slightly off the usual tourist track. Dishes include Nasi Goreng Pataya (a Thai-Malaysian-influenced fried rice wrapped in an egg), Mee Soto Ayam and other noodle and rice dishes.

 

Recommended dishes: Nasi Goreng Pataya, Mee Soto Ayam, Martabak.

Why go: A great option for travellers who enjoy Southeast Asian flavours and want a halal lunch or dinner with a bit of spice and flair.

Operation hours: Mon-Sun (9am – 9.30pm)

Location: Ground Floor, Saimah II Hotel, 310-D Elizondo St, Quiapo, Manila, 1001 Metro Manila, Philippines

Tip: Since this spot is in a busy district, go early to beat lunch peak; hygiene standards are pretty decent, but always check for recency of halal certification or ask staff about preparation if needed.

 

A Few Halal-Friendly Dining Tips in Manila

 

• Always ask: Even if a restaurant claims “halal”, ask staff to confirm that meats are halal-certified and that no pork/cross-contamination is involved.
• Explore beyond the malls: While many halal options are in shopping centres, some of the most flavour-rich places are in older districts (e.g., Quiapo) or local neighbourhoods.
• Mind local-time dining: Filipino dinner times often start later (after 6pm) so plan accordingly would be more convenient.
• Drink options: Stick to bottled water or known soft-drinks; if you’re in doubt about other beverages, ask just to be sure!
• Atmosphere matters: Some halal-friendly restaurants may lean casual (street-level, small setups) and that can be part of the charm.

Final Thoughts

Manila is more than just a stopover—it’s a destination rich in culture, history and food. For the Muslim traveller (or anyone seeking halal-certified dining with quality), the city does not disappoint. From the hearty grills at Moud, through Persian elegance at Arya, to the Malaysian spice of Pamanganan—you’ll find menus that satisfy both taste and faith.

So next time you’re planning your Philippine itinerary, include Manila not just for the sights, but for the flavours. Halal-friendly dining is very much alive here, and each restaurant tells a story of multicultural influences, local adaptation and warm hospitality.

Come visit www.myrehat.com for more travel recommendations, halal-food guides and tips to explore Southeast Asia with confidence!